I have barrel chokes altered. Often.
Many of my vintage American SxS's left the factory in the early 1900's choked FULL & FULLER. Given tha ammo of the day, and their hunting style, that may have been appropriate.
I mostly hunt upland birds over pointing dogs. For that purpose, much more open chokes are desirable. I see no value in hunting bobwhite quail with a 12 gauge full choke shotgun.
I bought a few northern European doubles that were made post-WWII. They were all choked F & F. I was told (???) this is because they shoot birds on the ground and in trees. In any case, I had the right barrels opened to IC, and have been pleased with the results.
I also enjoy using my older SxS's to shoot sporting clays. F&F is a real handicap, as most local courses are laid out for IC & M.
Jerry Goldstein
